Levers and linkages
Lesson details
Learning outcome
I can describe the function of levers and linkages using specific examples.
Key learning points
- Levers move an input force around a fulcrum by mechanical advantage to an output force.
- Linkages move a force and can change direction of the force.
Keywords
Fulcrum - a fixed pivot point
Effort - input force
Load - output force
Mechanical advantage (MA) - to make moving or lifting something easier
Linkages - a set of levers joined together to transfer and control motion
Common misconception
The only way to gain MA is by increasing the input force.
MA can be increased by increasing the distance from the fulcrum and the effort. For example, increasing the arm length on the handle of a flat head screwdriver when opening a can of paint.
Teacher tip
Building bricks are a great way to teach levers and to see the impact of changing forces and distances from fulcrum. Look around your classroom; you will have examples such as screwdrivers, tongs, scissors, tin snips, wheelbarrows that you could use to demonstrate both levers and linkages. Enjoy!
Content guidance
Risk assessment required - equipment
Supervision
Adult supervision required
Licence
Lesson video
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Prior knowledge starter quiz
6 Questions
Q1.A children's swing is an example of:
Q2.Match the product to the type of output motion:
linear
reciprocating
rotary
oscillating
Q3.What does equilibrium mean?
Q4.To open a tin of paint or varnish more easily, what could you do?
Q5.A work horse is a product that uses linkages. Why do you think it may use linkages?
Q6.Look at the picture. What would happen if one of the small penguins moved off the seesaw.
Assessment exit quiz
6 Questions
Q1.Levers have three changeable elements. Match the element to its definition:
a fixed pivot point to move around
the input force
the output force
Q2.Match the products to the order of lever:
second class lever
third class lever
first class lever
third class lever
first class lever
second class lever
Q3.Linkages are a set of levers joined together to:
Q4.In a reverse motion linkage, the input and output...
Q5.How can mechanical advantage (MA) be increased in a first class lever?
Q6.If the input motion in a treadle linkage is rotary, what is the output motion?
To help you plan your 11 design and technology lesson on: Levers and linkages, download all teaching resources for free and adapt to suit your pupils' needs...
To help you plan your 11 design and technology lesson on: Levers and linkages, download all teaching resources for free and adapt to suit your pupils' needs.
The starter quiz will activate and check your pupils' prior knowledge, with versions available both with and without answers in PDF format.
We use learning cycles to break down learning into key concepts or ideas linked to the learning outcome. Each learning cycle features explanations with checks for understanding and practice tasks with feedback. All of this is found in our slide decks, ready for you to download and edit. The practice tasks are also available as printable worksheets and some lessons have additional materials with extra material you might need for teaching the lesson.
The assessment exit quiz will test your pupils' understanding of the key learning points.
Our video is a tool for planning, showing how other teachers might teach the lesson, offering helpful tips, modelled explanations and inspiration for your own delivery in the classroom. Plus, you can set it as homework or revision for pupils and keep their learning on track by sharing an online pupil version of this lesson.
Explore more key stage 4 design and technology lessons from the Core principles unit, dive into the full secondary design and technology curriculum, or learn more about lesson planning.